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Community Foundation Housing Land Trusts Explores Affordable Dorm Project

The Reno City Council recommended an agreement with the Community Foundation Housing Land Trust to create affordable housing on 250 Sage Street. The Community Foundation proposed to use the property for affordable dorm housing that will serve up to 200 low-income working people. Watch live stream City Council Presentation and discussion Targeted tenants for the Affordable Dorms would be young people working full-time, perhaps who received services Eddy House and seniors living in motels while waiting for Senior Affordable Housing. The proposed rent of $390 a month equals 16% AMI or 26% of monthly income at minimum wage. The pre-fabricated dorms are used by mining camps, FEMA, and for other industries in varied parts of the world under diverse weather conditions. They are available now to purchase and move to Reno from Wyoming. The long narrow pre-built structures fit well on the site.  200 private rooms have an operable window, desk, bed, closet, and resident controlled HVAC.  Each room has a locking door and there is a shared bath in the wing. The Dorm project includes a community gathering room, laundry room, commercial kitchen, gym, computer training room and meeting rooms. Site Improvements include fencing, park and picnic areas, lighting, landscaping, secure parking and public art. Transportation links are nearby. Volunteers of America has agreed to operate the Affordable Dorm Project. They have experience operating senior housing in Reno and northern California. Residents will be able to get services they need such as:

  • Financial coaching/goal achievement
  • Financial literacy classes
  • Employment/career counseling
  • Education and certificate assistance. Some services will be provided on site, most will be from Reno and Sparks community resources.

Before the project can proceed:

  • funding and financing must be secured or pledged for site development: dorm purchase payments and contingencies
  • The terms of the operator agreement must be completed and executed
  • the development and operating budget must be finalized
  • a time extension arranged for due diligence from dorm seller if need be.

We need the community to pitch in and make the dorm project happen as a model for the country. Contributions are needed from contractors, builders, transportation companies and donors.

There is a short timeframe to complete the necessary arrangements and financing before this extraordinary project can be a reality. We need support and participation by everyone who wants to improve the housing situation and create safe, secure, and affordable housing in our community.

Please call Chris Askin, President and CEO to learn how you can be involved. 775-333-5499.